The swarms of bats fly from the cave at around 6pm every day, drawing large numbers of local people and tourists to take photos.

Noen Maprang public health officer Thammarat Phetree explained that the species of bats in the province was different from those in China.

“As a result, people and tourists are visiting Noen Maprang without fear,” he said. “However, our public health office remains on alert and we are instructing people on dangers from the virus and prevention.”

The officer said that a big cleaning activity will be undertaken at government offices, schools, and banks next week.